Godly or Godless? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 7:13-14 – “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
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Introduction
In a world filled with confusion and deception, it is becoming increasingly apparent who is walking in godliness and who is walking in godlessness. God has called His people to walk in His ways, yet many are turning aside to follow the broad way that leads to destruction. This message serves as a reminder to all believers to evaluate their lives and ensure they are walking according to God's truth. As the forces of evil grow stronger and deception spreads, it is vital for God’s people to hold fast to their commitment to Him, walking in His righteousness and truth. This lesson will explore the difference between those who are godly and those who are godless, encouraging us to remain faithful to God’s call and resist the temptations of the world.
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The Danger of Yielding to Demonic Influence
In these times, many have yielded to the influence of demonic powers. As a result, they are living according to the agenda of darkness, spreading lies and acting out the commands of demons. 2 Corinthians 4:4 warns, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” Those who are godless are blinded by the lies of the enemy and follow paths that lead to destruction. Their hearts and minds are under the control of forces that seek to keep them from the truth and the light of God’s Word.
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The Falsehood of Lip Service
Many who claim to love God do not demonstrate that love through their actions. Their words may proclaim devotion, but their hearts are far from Him. Matthew 15:8 says, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” This is a time when many declare their love for God, but their actions reveal their true allegiance to the world. They are more committed to their own desires and understanding than to God’s will. Such lip service is empty and does not bring about true godliness. Those who walk in true godliness will demonstrate their love for God through their deeds, obeying His commands and living according to His will.
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The Lure of the Broad Way
The broad way, which is filled with the pleasures and temptations of the world, leads to destruction. Matthew 7:13 warns, “For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” The world entices people with its false promises of fulfillment and satisfaction, yet those who follow the broad way will find themselves empty and unfulfilled. The ways of the world are deceptive and lead to ruin. As God’s people, we are called to walk the narrow path, following His truth and resisting the temptations that lead to destruction.
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The Call to Stay True to God’s Vows
God desires His people to remain faithful to the vows they have made to Him. When we commit our lives to Him, we must be steadfast in our faith and obedience. Psalm 15:4 reminds us, “Who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind.” The true believer is one who remains faithful to God, even when it is difficult, and does not deviate from His commands. Those who have made vows to God must be resolute in keeping them, guarding their hearts and minds from the temptations of the world.
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The Deception of Godless Leaders
Godless leaders, whether in nations or communities, lead people down paths of hopelessness and destruction. Isaiah 9:16 says, “Those who guide this people mislead them, and those who are guided are led astray.” When leaders are not walking in godliness, they lead others into ruin. They act as though they are gods themselves, demanding reverence and obedience, but their ways are filled with folly. God will expose their wickedness in due time, and those who follow them will face the consequences of their misguided choices. As believers, we must be discerning and not follow the ways of those who reject God’s truth.
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The Call for Awakening
This is a time of great awakening, where God is calling people to repentance and salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” God is sending forth His messengers to awaken people to the realities of their sin and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ. We must not be swayed by the lies and deception that are spreading in the world. Instead, we must listen to the Holy Spirit, who will guide us into all truth. Only by walking in the truth can we avoid the destruction that comes from believing the lies of the enemy.
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Summary
In a world filled with deception and wickedness, the line between godly and godless is becoming more clear. Those who follow the ways of the world and give in to the influences of darkness will find themselves on the path to destruction. However, those who are godly, who follow God’s truth and remain faithful to Him, will walk the narrow path that leads to life. It is a time for believers to evaluate their lives, remain true to their vows to God, and stand firm in His truth. We must resist the temptation to follow the broad way of the world and instead walk in the light of God’s Word.
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Conclusion
God has called His people to live in godliness, not in the lies and deceptions of the world. In these times, we must be vigilant, guarding our hearts and minds from the enemy’s schemes. We are not to follow the ways of godless leaders or yield to the temptations of the broad way. Instead, we must stand firm in our commitment to God, walking in His truth and righteousness. As we do so, we will find true fulfillment and eternal life.
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Call to Action
I encourage you today to examine your life. Are you walking in godliness, or are you being deceived by the lies of the enemy? Are you following the narrow path that leads to life, or are you being enticed by the broad way that leads to destruction? If you find yourself on the wrong path, I urge you to turn to God, repent, and commit your life fully to Him.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Take courage, for God is with you. He has given you the gift of salvation and the Holy Spirit to guide you in His truth. Do not be swayed by the lies of the world, but stand firm in the truth of God’s Word. As you walk in His ways, He will protect you and lead you to life everlasting.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I invite you to pray this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again, offering me eternal life. I choose today to follow You and to live according to Your will. Help me to trust in You and to walk in the truth of Your Word. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen."
